Timing chain stretch (1.2 12V)
Attaches to CGPA at engine level · Engine · carried by 3 variants across 3 chassis
Overview
Timing chain stretch (1.2 12V) is a occasional fault recorded against CGPA at engine level, typically from 100–190k km. It shows up as a rattle for a second or two after a cold start, and over time a rough idle or a camshaft timing fault code. Where it's documented, the repair runs €600–€1,100 (chain, guides and tensioner at an independent, costs dated 2026-07), and it can be checked before you buy. 3 variants across 3 chassis in this database inherit it.
What happens
Symptom. A rattle for a second or two after a cold start, and over time a rough idle or a camshaft timing fault code.
Cause. The chain and tensioner on this three-cylinder wear with age and short-trip use. It's less abrupt than the failure on the turbocharged engines of the same family, and it still costs a real share of what these cars are worth.
How to check it
Cold start
Start it from stone cold and listen for the first few seconds. A short rattle that clears is the early warning, so price the work in rather than hoping.
You get one. If the engine is warm when you arrive, come back another day.
Every variant that carries this
| Variant | Chassis | Body | Years | Risk | Good buy | Cost as % of good buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 12V CGPA | 6R | hatchback | 2009–2014 | R2 | €4,400 | 19% |
| 1.2 12V CGPA | 5J | hatchback | 2007–2014 | R2 | €3,400 | 25% |
| 1.2 12V CGPA | 5J Combi | wagon | 2008–2014 | R2 | €3,600 | 24% |
The last column is the point. The same repair is an inconvenience on one variant and a reason to scrap the car on another. A failure costing a quarter of the vehicle's value changes the purchase decision regardless of how rare it is.